This is a journey across countries, cultures and landscapes — covering over 1,800 kilometres from the heart of England to the historic soul of Italy.

Over 10 to 14 days, the route winds through the UK countryside, across the rolling fields of France and Belgium, past the river valleys of Luxembourg and Germany and through the scenic low passes of the Austrian Alps before dropping into the sunlit plains of northern Italy. The ride ends in the Eternal City — Rome.

A thoughtfully chosen route

This route was carefully designed to avoid the high Alps, making it accessible to experienced cyclists without the need for extreme climbing or alpine gear. Instead of steep mountain passes, the ride uses river valleys, cycle paths and the beautiful Alpe-Adria cycle route, which offers breathtaking views and a manageable ascent through Austria via old railway corridors and tunnels.

From the vineyards of the Moselle to the hill towns of Tuscany, each day offers something new — both physically and culturally.

The Plan

  • The total distance of the ride will be 1800-2000km.

    Each day the riders will complete a distance of 120-150km.

  • This will be a 10-14 day trip where the cyclists will experience a mixture of wild camping, staying in hostels and staying in hotels.

  • Mixed - Tarmac, some gravel and rail-grade climbs

    • Crossing 6 countries

    • The Alpe-Adria tunnel and mountain descent

    • Tuscany’s winding roads and olive groves

    • Rolling into Rome along the Tiber cycle path

We’ll be riding 160–200km every day, pushing our bodies to the limit. But here’s the truth: the real progress happens off the bike. Recovery is what keeps us rolling.

Sleep

Sleep is our number one recovery tool. Every hour counts when it comes to repairing muscles and restoring energy.

Nutrition

Carbs to refuel, protein to rebuild and plenty of hydration to keep the engine running.

Stretching & Mobility

Keeping our bodies supple so we can keep turning the pedals day after day.

Rest

As tempting as it is to keep moving, downtime is where endurance is built.

Recovery isn’t just a luxury – it’s a strategy. Without it, the journey to Rome wouldn’t be possible.

Every kilometre we ride is for Willen Hospice and Sarcoma UK but every moment we rest is what makes those kilometres possible. ❤️